Is depression contagious?

Written by Pang Ji Cheng

Psychiatry and Psychology

Updated on September 19, 2024

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Depression is not contagious, but there is a certain genetic predisposition to it. Clinically, depression is closely related to genetic, environmental, physiological, and psychological factors. For families with a history of depression, their offspring are 4-8 times more likely to suffer from depression than the general population. However, this does not mean depression is a hereditary disease. Interaction with individuals suffering from depression may influence others negatively, including feelings of sadness, self-blame, or despair. Nevertheless, depression cannot be transmitted to others. Through systematic and standardized treatment, particularly with the use of new antidepressant medications, depression can be effectively managed.

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Written by Du Rui Xia

Obstetrics

57sec

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How to treat postpartum depression?

When postpartum depression occurs, it is first important to pay attention to women's mental health. Treatment can be approached psychologically, and additionally, medication and physical therapy may be options. Psychological therapy includes supportive psychological treatments, music therapy, and cognitive behavioral adjustments. The main purpose of psychological therapy, especially during acute depressive episodes, is to alleviate symptoms of depression to improve social issues. It is important that family members and husbands provide sufficient psychological support and ensure that the new mother feels secure. Additionally, diet should be considered; consuming foods rich in protein and vitamins can strengthen a woman's body and resistance, and regulate her physical condition. In severe cases, under the guidance of a doctor, medication can also be used for treatment.

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Written by Du Rui Xia

Obstetrics

54sec

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Causes of Postpartum Depression

The main reasons for postpartum depression occur because, after childbirth, there is a sharp change in hormone levels in women, which often leads to the development of postpartum depression. Additionally, aside from hormonal changes, there are also psychological changes in women after childbirth. Women may struggle with poor adaptation postpartum, as well as a lack of clear role identification and acceptance, leading to contradictory emotions that they find difficult to manage under normal stress. This situation is prone to lead to depression. Moreover, women tend to be physically weaker after childbirth, experiencing fatigue and physical discomfort, which can also affect their emotional state. Furthermore, the lack of care from family members or the husband can make it more likely for postpartum depression to occur.

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Written by Pang Ji Cheng

Psychiatry and Psychology

1min 2sec

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How is depression treated?

Depression treatment in clinical settings includes self-adjustment, psychotherapy, medication, and physical therapy. Patients with mild depression can base their treatment on self-adjustment, which includes exercising, distracting attention, talking to others, etc. Psychotherapy, especially cognitive behavioral therapy, is recommended as the first choice of treatment. It helps patients identify automatic thoughts and reconstruct the cognitive irrationality system among other methods. Furthermore, patients with moderate to severe depression are primarily treated with medication, particularly with serotonin reuptake inhibitors such as paroxetine, sertraline, and fluoxetine, which are commonly used in clinical settings. Additionally, physical therapy mainly involves non-convulsive electroshock and transcranial magnetic stimulation as major treatment methods. (Specific medications should be used under the guidance of a physician.)

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Written by Yue Hua

Obstetrics and Gynecology

38sec

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How long does postpartum depression last?

Postpartum depression can generally be cured within a year in 70% of women. In families where such cases occur, it is important to pay attention, communicate more with the patient, and provide sufficient care and guidance. Additionally, timely psychological and pharmacological treatments should be administered to boost the patient's confidence and self-worth. It is also necessary to use antidepressant medications under a doctor's guidance that do not enter the breast milk, meaning they do not affect breastfeeding.

home-news-image

Written by Pang Ji Cheng

Psychiatry and Psychology

50sec

home-news-image

Is depression contagious?

Depression is not contagious, but there is a certain genetic predisposition to it. Clinically, depression is closely related to genetic, environmental, physiological, and psychological factors. For families with a history of depression, their offspring are 4-8 times more likely to suffer from depression than the general population. However, this does not mean depression is a hereditary disease. Interaction with individuals suffering from depression may influence others negatively, including feelings of sadness, self-blame, or despair. Nevertheless, depression cannot be transmitted to others. Through systematic and standardized treatment, particularly with the use of new antidepressant medications, depression can be effectively managed.